SY 26/27 Managing Director of Operations

Company Description

About KIPP Kansas City Public Schools:

KIPP Kansas City Public Schools is part of a nationwide network of free, open-enrollment, college-preparatory charter schools dedicated to preparing students in educationally underserved communities for success in college and life. Our strength as a region serves as a catalyst for empowerment, change, and hope.

Founded in 2007, KIPP Kansas City Public Schools began with KIPP Endeavor Academy, serving approximately 31 fifth-grade students. Today, we educate approximately 1,000 students from Pre-K through 12th grade, with our community continuing to expand. Together with families and communities, we strive to create joyful, academically excellent schools that equip students with the skills and confidence to pursue their chosen paths—whether college, career, or beyond—so they can lead fulfilling lives and contribute to a more just world.

Job Description

Position Overview:

The Managing Director of Operations (MDO) will play a critical leadership role at KIPP Kansas City, ensuring all non-instructional operations are aligned with the organization's mission and goals. The MDO will develop and execute a strategic vision for school operations, covering areas such as facilities, technology, student attendance, student recruitment, compliance, auxiliary services (food and transportation) and more. This role centers on driving operational efficiency while nurturing a culture of care, equity, and excellence for both staff and students. The MDO collaborates with the Chief of Talent and Compliance, Chief Academic Officer, and the Chief Schools Officer to ensure operational success, ultimately contributing to a learning environment that supports educational justice and student achievement.

Key Responsibilities: 

Operational Leadership & Team Management

• Lead the development and execution of KIPP KC’s long-term operational strategy, ensuring alignment with academic and cultural objectives.
• Develop a people-centered, values-based culture that supports staff sustainability, retention, and development.
• Lead, manage, and coach the school operations team including facilities, front office, custodial, technology, and vendors.
• Build scalable and equitable operational systems, policies, and procedures that support high academic achievement.
• Work collaboratively with the leadership team to manage budgets, oversee operational priorities, and align resources with strategic goals.
• Serve as a thought partner to the leadership team, anticipating challenges, influencing decision-making, and driving forward operational priorities.
• Manage the school's food service program (NSLP compliance) and transportation logistics (busing).
•  Supervise school nursing staff and health records compliance.

Facilities & Safety

• Ensure all facilities operate safely and efficiently, adhering to health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Manage janitorial, maintenance, and landscaping teams or vendors to ensure a clean, dignified learning environment.
• Oversee school safety protocols, including emergency drills, security personnel, and surveillance systems.
• Oversee preventive maintenance and repair plans to optimize building functionality.
• Lead long-term facility planning, including renovations or new construction.

Student Recruitment & Enrollment

• Develop and implement recruitment strategies to drive the student recruitment and registration process to meet enrollment targets.
• Oversee all aspects of the enrollment and transfer processes, ensuring compliance with state regulations.
• Collaborate with the family engagement team to ensure a seamless enrollment experience.

Operational Efficiency, Technology, & Student Data Management

• Partner with the Data Team to manage accurate and compliant student data.
• Oversee operational support for State Testing logistics and all major student assessments.
• Oversee the Student Information System (SIS) for accurate attendance, grading, and state reporting.
• Ensure technology and equipment needs for both staff and students are met and aligned with academic goals.
• Ensure students and staff have reliable hardware and high-speed connectivity.

Transportation & Family Services

• Oversee student transportation, including arrival and dismissal procedures, field trips, and athletics.
• Manage communication channels between schools and families, ensuring timely and efficient information sharing.

Budget Management & Compliance

• Collaborate with the finance team to manage the operational budget, ensuring fiscal responsibility.
• Lead the implementation of emergency procedures and ensure all staff are trained on safety proto